Key Points

• EMTs provide emergency medical care, life-saving interventions, and patient transport.
• To become an EMT in North Carolina, complete a state-approved program, pass the NREMT exam, and apply for NC OEMS certification.
• Training programs last 3–6 months and cost between $1,200–$2,500.
• EMTs in North Carolina earn an average of $40,450 per year ($19.45/hour) (BLS).
• Job outlook is 5% growth through 2034 (BLS).
• Major hiring areas: Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, and Durham.

What is an EMT?

An Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) is a certified healthcare provider trained to respond to 911 calls, assess patient conditions, and deliver urgent pre-hospital care. EMTs work closely with paramedics, firefighters, and police officers to manage emergencies ranging from cardiac arrest to car accidents.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess patient conditions and vital signs
• Administer CPR, oxygen therapy, and basic life support (BLS)
• Control bleeding and stabilize fractures
• Assist with emergency medications
• Safely transport patients to hospitals
• Communicate with dispatchers, nurses, and emergency physicians

Where Do EMTs Work?

EMTs in North Carolina work in fast-paced, high-pressure environments, responding to medical emergencies across different settings:

• Ambulance Services: Responding to 911 calls and providing pre-hospital emergency care.
• Fire Departments: Assisting at accident scenes and fires.
• Hospitals: Working in emergency rooms or patient transport.
• Sporting Events & Concert Venues: Providing on-site medical care.
• Industrial & Corporate Safety Teams: Offering emergency response for workplace injuries.

EMT programs in North Carolina are offered by community colleges, technical institutes, and private academies.

To find a program near you, use Dreambound, the largest database for vocational and healthcare training programs.

Requirements to Become an EMT in North Carolina

To work as an EMT in North Carolina, candidates must meet the following:

• Education: High school diploma or GED
• Training: Completion of an NC OEMS-approved EMT program
• Certification: Pass the NREMT exam (cognitive + psychomotor)
• Licensure: Apply for and maintain NC OEMS certification
• Physical Readiness: Ability to lift patients and equipment
• CPR Certification: Must remain current at all times

How to Become an EMT in North Carolina

Follow these steps to earn your EMT certification and start your emergency medical career.

1. Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

Ensure you meet all state and program prerequisites including age, education, and background clearance.

2. Complete a State-Approved EMT Training Program

Enroll in an NC OEMS-approved EMT program. Training typically takes 3–6 months and includes:

• Emergency care procedures and trauma management
• Airway obstruction techniques and oxygen delivery
• Patient assessment and transport simulations
• Clinical rotations or ride-along experiences

3. Earn CPR/BLS Certification

Most EMT programs include Basic Life Support (BLS) certification — a prerequisite for the NREMT exam.

4. Pass the NREMT Exam

After completing training, you must pass both components of the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam:

• Cognitive Exam: Computer-based test covering patient care, trauma, and medical emergencies
• Psychomotor Exam: Hands-on practical test administered by NC OEMS-approved evaluators

Visit NREMT.org for exam details and testing resources.

5. Apply for North Carolina EMT Licensure

Submit your application to the North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services (NC OEMS).
Requirements include:

• NREMT certification
• Background check
• Proof of completed EMT training
• Application fee

Once approved, you’ll receive your official North Carolina EMT certification.